McDonald’s Specials (The Genius of McFlurry, Fillet-o-Fish, and More)

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McDonald’s Specials

This McDonald’s Specials page covers all of the things that you know and love, as well as the things you hate. McDonald’s specials range from classic like the fillet-o-fish to once-a-year treats like Shamrock Shakes.

The Magic of McDonald’s McFlurry

The McDonald’s McFlurry is a joy to behold. It’s the cheapest, tastiest ice cream out there. It’s super soft, super creamy and it comes in many delicious flavors.

The reason there is a hole in your spoon is because it’s used to attach to a stirrer and to mix your ice cream (not to suck like a straw, as many seem to believe) and the reason that this ice cream is so often off the menu is because the machines previously required a lot of work to clean and maintain. They were often out of order, which meant that the ice cream wasn’t available.

This began to be fixed a few years ago, when McDonald’s worked to add new and better machines to their restaurants, but some still use the older machines. You should also note that there are more flavors than the ones on the menu. They tend to only advertise a few flavors at a time focusing on specials and promotional flavors. But you can still order old favorites.

If you don’t want the extra sugar and sweetness, then you can also order the McFlurry without the toppings. We personally would never dream of doing such a thing. But the ice cream is still great even by itself, so it’s a good option if you’re limiting your sugar intake.

The Reputation of the McDonald’s Fillet o Fish

The McDonald’s Fillet o Fish has a somewhat flawed reputation. It is the laughing stock of the McDonald’s menu, the punch line to many jokes. It is generally assumed that no one likes this menu item and that its taste is akin to a wet sandal, with just as much nutritious value. That’s not quite true, but how true is it’s popularity?

Well, many items have come and gone on the McDonald’s menu. They are not averse to removing things that don’t prove popular, which is why things like the McDonald’s hotdog didn’t last. The fact that the Fillet o Fish has lasted for so long suggests that it is popular, at least to an extent.

This menu item was first launched in 1962 and it has remained on the menu more or less since then. It combines a breaded fish fillet that is fried, before tartar sauce is added. These are added to a steamed bun after being topped with cheese. The fish used has changed over the years and in the US the most recent change involved the use of pollock.

There are roughly 380 calories in the fillet o fish. You’ll get around half your daily allowance of sodium, a fifth of saturated fat and just 7% fiber. Not great, but there is also 15 grams of protein and a decent dose of calcium. As for popularity, it is said that over 300 million are sold every year. It’s a big hit at lent, and indeed with anyone looking to avoid red meat any other time of year.

McDonald’s Holiday Specials

McDonald’s release a few special dishes during certain holidays. One of these is the Shamrock Shakes, discussed elsewhere on this page. Others have included Egg Nog Shakes and the McRib at Christmas. The former wasn’t very popular. It seems that people don’t like egg nog unless it is loaded with alcohol, and we can’t blame them. The latter is usually very popular though.

In fact, the McRib inspired a Simpsons episode in which Homer goes on a tour searching for a limited edition burger at the Krusty Burger chain. It isn’t the most nutritious of foods in this animation, but it’s said to taste great and that’s McDonald’s through and through.

What is the McDonald’s Uniform?

One of the recent changes to McDonald’s uniforms has created an aesthetic that has been compared to Stars Wars villains and to the Hunger Games. We’ll admit, there is a certain bland, dystopian feel to them. Many fast food chains go for fun, bright and bold uniforms, but for some reason McDonald’s have bucked the trend and have tried something that we personally don’t think works.

They look smart, there is no denying that, but this is a fast food chain, smart shouldn’t be the main priority. It’s about being clean, fun and lively. At the very least they should be wearing uniforms that show stains and dirt, so dirt can be spotted and erased, or they should be colorful, to cheer up customers and to excite kids. But they have gone in a completely different direction.

What is the McDonald’s Rap?

This is an amusing video, an interesting way to kill a few seconds. But like so many things on the internet it became inexplicably huge and was watched by millions of people around the world.

The McDonald’s rap is a Youtube video that was created in 2007 and went on to receive over 25 million views, spawning many similar raps and parodies. The McDonald’s rap comes complete with a low-budget. The lyrics and the video follow a man’s journey from his house, when he’s not satisfied with the food in his kitchen, to a McDonald’s drive-thru and then into a restaurant.

He even hints at a few McDonald’s secret menu items, as well as Shamrock Shakes, Happy Meals and a few other iconic things associated with the Golden Arches.

McDonald’s Birthday Party Details

If you want to throw a birthday party at McDonald’s then make sure your local restaurant accommodates them. The best McDonald’s locations for parties are the ones with play areas. Not only because they have the equipment to facilitate excitable kids, but also because they tend to offer everything else. There are cakes, visits from Ronald McDonald, party favors and party decorations.

This is not the sort of thing that can be arranged last minute and it’s not the sort of thing that you can find in every location. So, phone up in advance and let them know what you’re looking for.

McDonald’s Game

The McDonald’s brand has spread to many forms of media and has worked hard to worm its way into the public conscious. Some of this has been via a conscious effort, other forms of publicity has occurred through the public themselves. One such effort is the McDonald’s Video Game.

This is a little Flash game that lets you assume the role of a McDonald’s restaurant, building from the ground up. If you have a desire to create your own McDonald’s franchise but you don’t have the money or the means, then get this game instead and live out your dreams on the virtual sphere.

When Does McDonald’s Stop Serving Shamrock Shakes?

The McDonald’s Shamrock Shake has been called everything from “an abomination” to “the greatest milkshake ever”. Many customers seem to be in the second category, and that includes us.

Shamrock Shakes are milkshakes that are dyed green and launched in time to celebrate St Patrick’s Day every year. There are actually customers out there that avoid this restaurant all year, but flock to pickup these shakes every time they are added back to the menu. As of a couple years ago there were many flavors of the Shamrock Shake added to the menu, giving these hungry customers more reason to obsess over them.

Just make sure you grab your fair share of them before the end of March, as this is when most locations stop serving them. There are some that will serve them for longer than others, but there are also some locations that only serve them for a week or two, instead of the 4 week average.

McDonald’s Menus Around the World

The McDonald’s menu you know and love is the same in your local restaurant as it is halfway across the United States. That’s the way they want it and it’s the way it is the world over. However, many global McDonald’s locations are a little different and offer some unique items that you won’t find in the United States.

For instance, in the UK there are several vegetarian options that are just not on the US menu. These all come via a veggie patty that can be placed in a bun or a wrap. If you pay a visit to locations in India then there are even more of these, catering for a predominantly vegetarian populace, and for a country that doesn’t eat beef.

The options in India include a McPaneer, which is a breaded and fried chunk of paneer cheese between a bun. There is also a Veggie mcMuffin, a veggie patty burger, and much more. Each country has its own specialty it seems, but here in the US we are a little more limited.

Don’t worry though, as the seasonal specials that we get in the US are rarely available elsewhere, so we’re not completely left out.

Low Carb Items

If you are on a low carb diet and still want to eat at Burger King, gives these menu items a shot.

Chicken Nuggets- 4pc 13 grams

Tacos (2) - 18 grams

Chicken BLT Garden Fresh Salad - 17 grams

Sausage Breakfast Burrito - 21 grams

High Protein Items

Protein is important, especially if you want to feel full. Try these high protein burger king items.

TRIPLE WHOPPER® Sandwich - 58 grams

Texas DOUBLE WHOPPER® Sandwich - 52 grams

BK® Quad Stacker - 46 grams

Chicken Nuggets- 20pc - 42 grams

Burger King Secret Menu

BK Secret Menu

I didn't know that the Burger King secret menu existed, but now that I know I order a few things from it each month. My favorite menu item is the Suicide Burger. Yummy! It's given a lot more adventure to my fast food experiences.

Burger King has locations all around the world. At the end of 2013, BK had more than 13,000 restaurants in more than 70 countries. 66 percent of Burger King stores are in the United States. 99 percent of Burger King stores are privately owned by franchise operators.

Burger King serves a variety of foods but mostly focuses on hamburgers, whopers, and chicken based products, like chicken tenders. Additionally, Burger King has a variety of desserts, drinks, and breakfast menu items.

Chick-fil-A Menu Prices

Cheapest Items on Chick-fil-A’s Menu

Chick-fil-A prices usually land slightly higher than fast food restaurants, but that being said, every restaurant has a few great deals. Below are some of the cheapest things you can find at Chick-fil-A.

Cheapest Foods at Chick-fil-A

Carrot and Raisin Salad $1.65

Cole Slaw $1.65

Fruit Cup $1.79

Waffle Fries (small) $1.45

Waffle Fries (Medium) $1.65

Cheapest Meals at Chick-fil-A

Nuggets (8) $5.85

Chicken Sandiwch $5.85

Spicy Chicken Sandwich $6.09

Chick-n-Strips (3) $6.15

Cheapest Breakfast Items at Chick-fil-A

Hash Browns $0.99

Hot Buttered Biscuit $1.55

Sunflower Multigrain Bagel $1.75

Cinnamon Cluster $1.89

Cheapest Dessert at Chick-fil-A

IceDream (Cone) $1.19

IceDream (Cup) $1.59

Fudge Nut Brownie $1.75

Chick-fil-A Nutrition Info

Low Calories Items

Our detailed tables of Chick-fil-A nutrition info can be a little big and daunting, but no need to hunt for healthy items. We have it covered for you.

Chick-fil-A Secret Menu

Chick-Fil-A Secret Menu

Chick-Fil-A makes the best chicken sandwich on the market, but the fried chicken club that I tried brought it to the next level. The added veggies created a big crunch and contrasted the saltiness perfectly.

~ Sandra Knutson, New Jersey

Costco Food Court

Chipotle Menu Prices

Cheapest Items on Chipotle's Menu

The Chipotle menu is naturally more expensive than typical fast food prices, due to their massive portions and use of high quality ingredients. Luckily, every restaurant has its good deals. Just check out the cheapest items on the menu below!

Chipotle Secret Menu

Chipotle Secret Menu

I have been a Chipotle aficionado since the day they first came to my city. Actually, before that because I visited Denver when they were small and loved it. I never thought Chipotle food could get better, but apparently I was wrong.

~ Tiffany Brenner, Oregon

Most Popular Secret Menu Items

Chipotle was founded in 1993 by Steve Ells. Just five years latter in 1998, McDonads came knocking on the door and invested $350 million into the small 16 location company. Chipotle now employees more than 45,000 people and has become a huge force in the fast casual category.

Chipotle has more than 1600 locations in 43 states and in parts of Canada and Europe. Chipotle has expanded from Mexican food and also runs ShopHouse, a similar concept as Chipotle, but serving Thai food in bowls. Chipotle has also explored the pizza industry and is looking to expand in it.

Chipotle serves Mexican food that you can customize on the fly. Their classic meal is the burrito, but they also have other offerings like salads. Some speculate that Chipotle may roll out breakfast and coffee to more and more locations nationally. Washington D.C. locations already have been testing it.

Dairy Queen Menu Prices

Cheapest Items on Dairy Queen’s Menu

Dairy Queen’s prices are typically pretty good, competing with the best of the fast food giants, but it’s still extremely difficult to offer meals at the dirt cheap prices that restaurants like McDonald’s can afford to. That being said, DQ has its own set of great deals, so check out their cheapest foods below!

Most Popular Secret Menu Items

Dairy Queen was founded in Kankakee, Illinois in 1940. It was founded by John Fremont McCullough. Baskin-Robbins, Ben & Jerry's, Braum's, Carvel, Culver's, Foster's Freeze, Good Times Burgers & Frozen Custard, McDonald's, and Sonic Drive-In are their main competitors.

Dairy Queen has over 5700 locations worldwide, of which about 85% are in the United States. Dairy Queen has locations in Canada, Mexico, and all across Asia. Dairy Queen was one of the pioneers of the franchise model, and most of their locations are run by independent operators.

Dairy Queen is the reigning champion of soft serve ice cream. From their soft serve ice cream they make cones, shakes, and malts. Dairy Queen also sells ice cream cakes at their stores. In addition to desserts, Dairy Queen also serves burgers and fries.

Denny’s Nutrition Info.

Denny’s Secret Menu

DQ Secret Menu

Denny's is my favorite place for breakfast. Their service is fast, the food is consistently good, and the coffee is free. But after going there for 10 years, it was time to try something new. That's why I like this secret menu a lot!

~ Scott Baker, New Mexico

Most Popular Secret Menu Items

Denny's is a full service coffee and pancake house. It was founded in Lakewood, California in 1953 by Harold Butler and Richard Jezak. In 1963, Denny's started franchising, which propelled a lot of its growth.

Denny's serves a variety of mostly breakfast foods at their locations, including signature pancakes. Every meal comes with a cup of coffee. While they are mostly a breakfast joint, they are often open late into the night. Their restaurants are located mostly near freeways and rely heavily on traffic from travelers and truckers.

Dominos Pizza

Dunkin Donuts

Five Guys Menu Prices

Cheapest Items on Five Guys Menu

The Five Guys full menu is packed with huge, juicy burgers that have earned rave reviews from people across the country. That quality comes at a premium, with meals usually costing around $5 - $8, but rest assured, there are plenty of inexpensive items on the Five Guys full menu. Below are some of the cheapest.

Cheapest Foods at Five Guys

Small Fries $2.29

Little Hamburger $3.99

Hot Dog $4.09

Little Cheeseburger $.459

Five Guys Nutrition Info

Five Guys Secret Menu

Five Guys Secret Menu

Five Guys popped out of nowhere it seems, but for good reason. Their food is absolutely, authentically American and delicious. One thing I miss about eating at In-N-Out instead though, is their animal fries. Well that's no longer the case because I discovered cheese fries at Five Guys.

~ Lori Davis, Nevada

Most Popular Secret Menu Items

Five Guys was founded in 1986 and their first location was in Arlington County, Virginia. Between 1986 - 2001, Five Guys maintained five locations, mostly in Washington D.C. In 2003, Five Guys began franchising and in a little over a year, they sold over 300 franchises.

Five Guys has over 1000 locations and is in the process of opening over a 1500 more in the next few years. Five Guys is the fastest growing restaurant in the United States. They saw a 32.8% sales increase from 2010 to 2011, which is unprecedented in the industry.

In-n-Out Burger Menu Prices

Cheapest Items on In-n-Out Burger Menu

The In-n-Out Burger full menu is simple and delicious, offering the same favorites with consistency. since their founding. Their traditional flavor keeps up with big fast food giants in price, too, offering above-average burgers for an average price. Check out some of their cheapest options below.

Cheapest Foods at In-n-Out Burger

French Fries $1.60

Hamburger $2.05

Cheeseburger $2.35

Cheapest Meals at In-n-Out Burger

Hamburger $5.05

Cheeseburger $5.55

Cheapest Dessert at In-n-Out Burger

Milkshake $2.10

Root Beer Float $2.10

In-n-Out Burger Nutrition & Calories

In-N-Out Secret Menu

In-N-Out Secret Menu

Everyone loves In-N-Out. Every time I go there, there are lines going out the door. The only problem with In-N-Out though, is that their menu is so small. It can get boring, which is such a shame. The secret menu though has opened up new tastes for me. I love it!

~ Mary Ely, Texas

Jack in the Box Menu Prices

Cheapest Items on Jack in the Box Menu

The Jack in the Box menu prices are packed with rich entrees, sides, frozen treats and more, offering up a wide variety of late-night snacks for the consumer. Their prices compete with the best, and their cheapest options below certainly show for it.

Jamba Juice Secret Menu

KFC Menu Prices

KFC Nutrition Info

KFC Secret Menu

KFC Secret Menu

We can all agree that KFC's fried chicken is finger licking good. Add a little sauce and a side of mash potatoes and you have a darn good meal. But I have been wanting more lately. That's what the KFC secret menu has done for me.

Sonic Nutrition Facts

Sonic Secret Menu

Sonic Secret Menu

I grew up with Sonic, since it was literally in my backyard. I know their menu like the back of my hand. While they have changed it some over the years, it hasn't been enough for me. That's why I have been experimenting with their secret menu!

~ Ricky Ziegler, Indiana

Starbucks Menu Prices

Cheapest Items on Starbucks Menu

Starbucks has a pristine reputation as America's biggest seller of quality coffee, but sometimes their prices aren't so quality. Luckily, we have their cheapest options compiled below, so check them out!

Cheapest Drinks at Starbucks

Espresso – Solo $1.45

Espresso – Doppio $1.75

Fresh Filter Coffee – Tall $1.75

Brewed Tea – Tall $1.95

Iced Coffee – Tall $1.95

Starbucks Nutrition Info

Have you ever wondered how much calories or sugar are in Starbucks coffee drinks? Check out the Starbucks nutrition info for the facts on how healthy your favorite lattes and frappuccinos really are.

Starbucks Secret Menu

Starbucks Secret Menu

As a regular Starbucks girl, there's nothing I like better before strolling to class than a frappucino. Especially in the summer. But a Twix, Candy Cane, and a Butterbeer frappucino? Come on, even the names make them sound delicious. Starbucks will never be the same again after reading this secret menu list.

~ Edna Reilly, Rhode Island

Subway

We have recently updated the Subway breakfast prices menu so that you can enjoy your footlong in peace.
View the latest Subway menu prices to match their brand new menu to revitalize sales.

Taco Bell Menu Prices

Taco Bell Nutrition Menu

Our editors just updated the PDF for Taco Bell nutrition so you can know how many calories are on the menu.

Taco Bell Secret Menu

Taco Bell Secret Menu

Taco Bell is everyone's favorite place for Mexican food. With the latest Doritos locos tacos, it's my new favorite spot. But I never new you could mix things to create something like the Waffle Taco. Having tried it out, I am amazed by the new flavors the secret menu has given me!